Car Key Fob Replacement
Many cars use key fobs to lock and unlock the doors and begin your car. Replacing a standard key fob usually requires a trip to the dealer who will charge you based on the make of your vehicle.
Consumer Reports has some simple ways to save money. Here's how:
Battery
If your key fob isn't working the first thing to do is change its battery. These tiny devices that have taken over the place of traditional keys have more in them than just buttons to lock and unlock your vehicle. They emit a sequence of signals based on how many times you press them. This signal is then sent to a receiver in the car, and it locks or unlocks it. Fobs are susceptible to breaking down over time just like any other piece of consumer electronics that is constantly jostled around in your pockets or purse.
If you're lucky enough, your new-car dealer will offer replacement key fob batteries that work with your car. If not, they're available at auto parts stores or even big-box retailers. It is generally recommended to purchase a CR2032 button cell battery, which ranges from $2-4 American for a pack of two. key replacements 'll need to take the old one from your fob before installing the new one carefully to avoid damage to the electronic circuit board.
Some of the newer fobs include a tiny key that can be pulled out if your keys fail to open the door or start the car. This is a useful feature, but it can be risky for those who frequently lose their keys. Some people use a wireless remote locking system that relies on an RFID chip embedded into the key fob. If you're having trouble with this, you'll need to contact your car manufacturer to determine whether the chip can be reset, or contact a locksmith in the event of need.
If you can purchase an extra key fob for an affordable price, you may be able to do the programming yourself. This is typically a cheaper option than buying a new key from the dealer. Be aware that not all key fobs from aftermarket are compatible with your car and many require special equipment to be programmed.
Programming
Most modern cars come equipped with electronic keys that let you unlock and start the vehicle remotely. You may be able to create a new key if you lose yours or if you require one. Instructions are generally available online. The exact procedure depends on the model of your car. Some owner's manuals also include specific programming instructions. Before you attempt to reprogramme your key fob, ensure that it's got new batteries. These are cheap and easy to replace, but the battery that is exhausted can cause problems with the process. Close all doors as one open door could affect the functionality of the fob.
To reprogram a remote key, turn off your car and take off the original ignition key. Press the lock button on the new fob within the specified time frame, typically 10 to 30 minutes. The car could respond by turning on the lights, cycling the locks or emitting an audible chime to signal an indication that the fob has been programmed. Repeat this procedure for any additional fobs that you would like to add to your car's system.
Be aware that this reprogramming technique is only available for vehicles that utilize the same technology. If your vehicle has a different key fob, or has an ignition key that is distinct and requires specialized programming. This can only be done by the dealer.
You can save money by using an auto locksmith. Many dealerships charge a flat price for this service. They have the tools to complete the task for less than what you'd have to pay at the dealership. They might even be able to come to you to do the job.
Ask the dealer how much the service will cost and if they offer an assurance. Verify your warranty or auto club membership or insurance policy to see whether they will cover lost fobs. If you have a good working relationship with your mechanic, they may even tell you about the costs of this service before you make an appointment.
Dealerships
If you lose your car keys, you might be tempted to go to the dealership to obtain a replacement. However, they usually cost more than other locations for this service, and might not provide the best price. Locksmiths and hardware stores are two other options for replacing your key fob. These places are often cheaper than dealerships, and can save you money.
A car key fob lets you to open and start your car without traditional keys made of metal. It's typically an oval or rectangular piece of plastic that has buttons that allow you to lock and unlock your car or activate an alarm, or open the trunk. Fobs gained popularity in the 1990s and are now standard on a lot of automobiles. They can be a useful method to unlock your car, however they also make it simple for thieves to rob your vehicle.
The most popular type of car key fob is a push-button starter, which is affixed to your car's ignition. You can usually find them at the dealership or an auto parts store. Switchblade keys, in which the key is made of metal and encased inside a plastic piece, and keyless entry key fobs are other types of car fobs. They are the most popular because they permit you to open and start your car without a physical key.
Many dealers overcharge the cost of key fobs as they know that consumers will pay for any service to return their vehicle. It's not always easy to find a replacement fob for an affordable price. However, you can save some money by choosing the correct battery and programming it in a different way.
If you own an old-fashioned metal key, an electronic starter, or one of the newer smart keys, you can replace it at a locksmith that isn't associated with any specific car manufacturer. They offer a broad selection of replacement keys, and can cut and program them for cheaper than dealers. You can search an online search engine to locate a locksmith who is independent near you.
Locksmiths
If your key fob goes missing, you'll likely need to pay a professional to replace it. But that might not be as cheap as you think, especially if the key fob includes an advanced feature, such as automatic locking or remote start button.
The majority of modern vehicles have smart keys that are designed to stop theft by sending unique security codes every when a button is press. These codes aren't stored on the fob, but instead in an embedded chip that communicates with the car to unlock doors and start the engine. Due to this extra layer, only locksmiths and car dealership technicians have the tools and expertise required to reprogram these keys.
It is possible to purchase a new keyfob through a hardware store or locksmith that specializes in car security for less money than you would have to pay if you went through the dealer. However, you'll probably have to hire a professional to program the fob, which may require the same equipment that the dealership utilizes.
Some automakers provide instructions for self-programming key fobs online or in their owner's guides. These steps can be quite difficult, however you may require another key fob that is functional to speed up the process or even to complete it all. It's sensible for owners and lessees alike to have two working key fobs prior to experiencing the anxiety of losing one.
If your car is equipped with a traditional key shank in addition to its smart key, you'll be able to make a spare at a key or hardware cutting store for relatively inexpensive and assuming that the original metal key isn't lost along with the fob. Fobs with a transponder feature on both the key shank as well as the fob may need to be professionally programmed however, which could add up if you need to have more than one spare or if the key has to be replaced.
Those who own German cars, for instance one, with a "flip" function that is akin to a switchblade knife, may only be able to get replacement fobs from the dealer. The reason for this is because these fobs typically use a special type of transponder that can only be reset and reset by the dealer's service department, which is generally the only company that has the equipment necessary to accomplish this.